As a traveling nurse, you're no stranger to long shifts, constant movement, and the excitement of exploring new places. But balancing work and travel can take a toll on your health if you're not mindful. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy, energized, and focused while on the go.
1. Stay Hydrated
The demands of your job, along with the dehydrating effects of air travel, can quickly leave you feeling drained. Bring a refillable water bottle with you and make it a point to drink water throughout your shift and while traveling.
Pro Tip: Fill up your bottle before boarding your flight and keep it with you during your workday to ensure you're staying hydrated.
2. Pack Healthy Snacks
As a traveling nurse, your shifts can be long, and finding nutritious food on the go can be challenging. Pack healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or granola bars to avoid relying on vending machine options..
Pro Tip: Pre-pack your snacks in small portions so you have quick, easy access during your breaks or between shifts.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is critical for staying alert and maintaining your well-being. While traveling across time zones or adjusting to new shift schedules, try to stick to a regular sleep routine as much as possible.
Pro Tip: Invest in a quality sleep mask, earplugs, or white noise apps to create a restful environment, especially when you're in unfamiliar locations.
4. Stay Active
Long shifts on your feet or hours spent driving can leave your body feeling stiff and fatigued. If your accommodation lacks a gym, take time to walk, jog, or do a few simple stretches to stay limber and energized.
Pro Tip: Look for local walking or hiking trails near your housing or hospital to incorporate exercise into your exploration of new cities.
5. Keep Your Hands Clean
As a nurse, you're already accustomed to hand hygiene, but while traveling, it’s essential to stay extra vigilant. Wash your hands regularly and carry hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
Pro Tip: Wipe down high-touch surfaces on your travel gear, like your airplane tray table, hotel room surfaces, and your work equipment, to avoid germs.
6. Protect Your Skin
Whether you’re working in an outdoor setting or exploring a sunny city, don’t forget to protect your skin from UV rays. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your skin.
Pro Tip: Use a travel-friendly sunscreen stick to avoid leaks in your bag and for easy, on-the-go application.
7. Take Movement Breaks
Long hours of standing or driving can lead to muscle stiffness and poor circulation. Take regular breaks to stretch your legs and move around. This can help reduce the risk of blood clots and improve overall comfort.
Pro Tip: During long shifts, take a few minutes to walk around the hospital or stretch in your break room to keep your body moving.
8. Stay Mentally Balanced
The combination of high-pressure work and constant travel can be mentally exhausting. Make time for self-care to keep your mind at ease. Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation to reduce stress and boost your mental clarity
.Pro Tip: Carry a small journal to jot down your thoughts or download a meditation app to help you stay grounded during your breaks or off-hours.
Being a traveling nurse is an incredibly rewarding profession, but it comes with its own set of challenges. By staying hydrated, eating healthy snacks, prioritizing sleep, staying active, and practicing good hygiene, you can make sure that both your body and mind are ready for anything that comes your way.